Skip to main content
Date:
Sat, May 02, 2026 at 8:50 AM
Location:
East Lamar Alexander Parkway
Blount County, Tennessee
37882
United States
OpenStreetMap Google Maps
Links:
facebook.com Register at runsignup.com
Tags:
1 Miles 5k Fun Run Run Trail Walk

Lace up your running shoes and embark on a legendary run through the Smokies! The Smoky Mountain Bigfoot 5K & 1 Mile Fun Run in Townsend, TN, invites runners, walkers, and Bigfoot enthusiasts to join a race that’s equal parts thrill and mystery. Set against the beautiful backdrop of the Great Smoky Mountains, this unique 5K event combines fitness and folklore in an unforgettable way.

Participants will wind their way through scenic trails where, rumor has it, Bigfoot might just make an appearance! With a course suitable for all levels, from seasoned runners to casual joggers, the Bigfoot 5K offers a perfect adventure for families, friends, and anyone drawn to the magic of the Smokies. Stick around after the race for awards, photo ops, and the Smoky Mountain Bigfoot Festival featuring live music, vendors, food trucks, Bigfoot competitions, special guests, family-fun zone and much more.

Both the 5K race and 1 mile fun run/walk start at the Peaceful Side Social and features the best swag in the history of Bigfoot 5Ks - you thought last year was good, this year is even 'Squatchier!!

The 1 mile fun run will start at 8:50am, and the 5K will start at 9:00 am, with full support along the way and a guaranteed good time! You might even (okay, you almost certainly will) experience a 'Squatch sighting along the course!

Bring your best Bigfoot-inspired gear, and let’s make tracks together for a day of fitness, fun, and maybe a little bit of mystery!

Due to insurance regulations, we can't have pets in either race. Strollers or wagons are only allowed on the 1 mile fun run.

Note that if you move your car after the race, you'll be asked to pay $25 for parking. Your non-running companions will need to pay the $15 entry fee (or $10 advance purchase) -- get your family their tickets in advance and save time at the entrance gate here: https://www.thebigfest.com/.

More races nearby

  • Great Smoky Mountains Half Marathon [vacationraces.com]

    Fri, Aug 28, 2026

    2.3 km
    Townsend Trail, Blount County, Tennessee, 37782, United States
    OpenStreetMap Google Maps

    5k 26k Half Marathon Run

  • Great Smoky Mountains Half Marathon [finishers.com]

    Sat, Sep 05, 2026

    544 m
    Blount County, Tennessee, United States
    OpenStreetMap Google Maps

    5k Half Marathon Run

  • Cades Cove Loop Lope [friendsofthesmokies.org] [Register at runsignup.com]

    Sun, Nov 08, 2026 at 7:30 AM

    Description

    The Cades Cove Loop Lope is the only organized footrace held inside Great Smoky Mountains National Park, to benefit Friends of the Smokies. All funds raised benefit park projects and programs such as...

    The Cades Cove Loop Lope is the only organized footrace held inside Great Smoky Mountains National Park, to benefit Friends of the Smokies. All funds raised benefit park projects and programs such as historic preservation, wildlife conservation, native plant and grassland restoration, and so much more.

    There are two course options, a 5K or a USATF Certified 10-Mile Loop. Participation is limited to 750 total runners. This race sells out fast, so please don't wait to register!

    You can pick up your race day packets and race bibs at either of the following times/locations:

    • Thursday, November 5, 2026, 3-6PM at River Sports Outfitters – 2918 Sutherland Ave, Knoxville, TN

    • Saturday, November 7, 2026, from 2-5pm at the Townsend Visitor Center – 7906 E Lamar, Alexander Pkwy, Townsend, TN

    Carpooling is essential to maximizing participation in this race. A limited number of vehicle reservation passes for on-site access in Cades Cove will be available for purchase for an additional fee. Please note: Parking reservation passes typically sell out the day registration opens. Registrants who do not purchase a vehicle pass must either carpool with a passholder they know or utilize the group transportation option from the Townsend Visitors Center. A handicapped accessible shuttle will be available at the Townsend Visitors Center.

    2.6 km
    Cades Cove Loop Road, Blount County, Tennessee, 37882, United States
    OpenStreetMap Google Maps

    5k 10 Miles Run

  • Run Santa Run Smokies [finishers.com]

    Sun, Dec 06, 2026

    544 m
    Blount County, Tennessee, United States
    OpenStreetMap Google Maps

    5k 10k Half Marathon Run

More races nearby →
Like Wikipedia, anyone can contribute. Sign up to add your local events.